They say we know more about outer space than we do about the ocean, but something that we can all agree on when it comes to our seas is that they are pretty magnificent – and in dire need of protection.
To showcase them at their very best, a photo competition is held annually to align with the UN World Oceans Day, which is a collaboration between the UN Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea, DPG, Oceanic Global, and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO.
The winners for this year’s edition have just been announced, and they’re seriously mesmerising.
Recommended: In pictures: the winners of the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards.
There were three returning categories: ‘big and small water faces’, ‘underwater seascapes’ and ‘above water seascapes’, and a new category of ‘wonder: sustaining what sustains us’, and the submissions, which were from thousands of amateur and professional photographers, were judged by a panel of experts. Scroll on for the stunning winning shots.
Did you see that the greatest outdoor travel destinations have been named in a new ranking?
Plus: The seven wonders of the world, ranked from best to worst.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news and best stuff happening across the world.
